Conquer the Great Wall Your Way
The Great Wall is one of the greatest man-made projects anywhere in the world. The scale of the undertaking is difficult to imagine until you have walked on it. No first trip to China is complete without seeing and climbing this living piece of history.
At total length of about 13,650 miles, the Great Wall has several sections that are well preserved after thousands of years or have been carefully restored. The most famous are the Great Wall at Badaling Section, Mutianyu Section, Jinshanling Section and Gubeikou Section. None will disappoint. We trust this information and tips will help you choose which to visit to get the best possible experience.
The easiest and lowest-cost option: Join a Seat-in-coach Tour to the Badaling Section
The famous saying by Chairman Mao: “He who doesn’t reach the Great Wall is not a true man. ”is well-known by almost all Chinese people and the saying is also familiar to many foreigners. The section of the Great Wall that Chairman Mao was referring to was the Badaling Section.
It is the most famous, nearest and most tourist-orientated section. A restored section it is developed but has with awesome views and iconic sights. It is not difficult to complete the climb on to the Wall. The Badaling section is especially good for older travelers, families with small children and those who prefer a less strenuous outing. It is also a good option for those who are with limited- time, as it is the closest section to the city center.
As Badaling section has been developed for a long time, serviced are well established. Joining a Seat-in-coach Tour (bus tour) to Badaling is very easy and the most economical. The quality of service varies, so compare before you buy. Going there early or late in the afternoon is a good hint to avoid the thronging crowds and also to take photos when the light is best.
Note: this trip is often coupled with a Ming Tomb visit.
Join a worry-free Seat-in-coach Tour for Badaling Great Wall at Mybeijingchina.com, This is our most popular and best-selling tour.
The Great Wall at Badaling Section 八达岭长城
Our Recommended Great Wall Experience: Great Wall Mutianyu Section with a Private Guide
The Great Wall at Mutianyu Section is a less-crowded but beautiful section where the landscape changes with each season. It is about 3 hours from Beijing City making it a day trip when you include time on the Wall. A private English-speaking guide and van will ensure the best experience and all the interesting stories. This section all people walk at a steady yet unhurried pace through the watch towers and passes. Going there with kids will allow you to leave the hustle and bustle of the city for a relaxing day.
Take a private Mutianyu Great Wall tour with Mybeijingchina.com. We specialize in private tours that are flexible and fun.
The Great Wall at Mutianyu Section 慕田峪长城
A strenuous but worthwhile: Hiking from Jinshanling to Gubeikou
For hiking and photography enthusiasts, the hike from Jinshanling to Gubeikou will not disappoint. Its picturesque scenery together with unrestored wall makes this an outstanding trip.
Jinshanling Section is a mountainous area with stunning scenery. Its wall zigzags up the steep hills and peaks look like a long bridge from a distance. Jinshanling remains undeveloped relatively and that attracts those looking for more adventure. Gubeikou is famous for its important strategic role in defending China’s capital. The trip will take about 2 days and travelers experience an authentic village life as well as the outstanding time on the Wall. This route is a favorite of backpackers with a spirit of adventure. It is possible to start from either Gubeikou or Jinshanling.
Tips: The West Watch Tower of Five Holes is a perfect place to take the photo of the Jinshanling sunset. People wishing to see this should begin hiking at Gubeikou and stay at Jinshanling overnight.
See our Hiking Tour from Jinshanling to Gubeikou, for more information.
The Great Wall at Jinshanling Section 金山岭长城
The Great Wall at Gubeikou Section 古北口长城